8 Day Galapagos Islands Cruise: Unforgettable Wildlife and Pristine Beaches Explored - Hermes Catamaran

8 Day Galapagos Islands Cruise: Unforgettable Wildlife and Pristine Beaches Explored - Hermes Catamaran | Hermes | Galapagos Tours8 Day Galapagos Islands Cruise: Unforgettable Wildlife and Pristine Beaches Explored - Hermes Catamaran | Hermes | Galapagos Tours

Embark on an unforgettable experience in the Galapagos Islands with an 8-day cruise aboard the M/C Hermes. This journey will take you to various spectacular destinations in the archipelago, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Discover the diverse landscapes and wildlife for which the Galapagos is famous. The cruise begins in Baltra and visits a variety of islands, including Santa Cruz, where you will encounter the remarkable Galápagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Get ready for a thrilling exploration of the mesmerizing volcanic islands, with ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and observing fascinating flora and fauna.

During the cruise, highlights include exploring the underground lava tunnels of Santa Cruz, hiking to Bartolomé's summit for breathtaking views, and observing the unique wildlife at Punta Pitt. Take the chance to snorkel around Pinnacle Rock, one of the most iconic volcanic rock formations in the Galapagos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and natural beauty that the region has to offer. The Hermes catamaran ensures a comfortable, memorable trip as you navigate the enchanted islands of the Galapagos.

Key Takeaways

  • Explore a diverse range of Galapagos destinations on an 8-day cruise aboard the M/C Hermes
  • Enjoy memorable activities like snorkeling at Pinnacle Rock and visiting the majestic Galápagos giant tortoises
  • Discover the unique landscapes and wildlife that make the Galapagos a vacation paradise

8 Day Galapagos Itinerary

Day 1: Baltra Airport to Santa Cruz Island

Start your adventure by arriving at Baltra Airport and transferring to your cruise ship. Once on board, you'll head to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to visit a tortoise ranch and marvel at the fascinating volcanic formations.
Meals Included: Lunch / Dinner

Day 2: Rábida Island and Bartolomé Island

On your second day, explore Rábida Island with its unique red landscape, home to a sea lion colony and saltwater lagoon. Later, visit Bartolomé Island for a hike leading to a panoramic viewpoint of the archipelago and an opportunity to snorkel in the waters around Pinnacle Rock.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 3: South Plaza Island and Santa Fe Island

Visit the small yet lively South Plaza Island, where you can observe various fauna and hike through a cactus forest. In the afternoon, explore Santa Fe Island, famous for its marine iguanas and unique vegetation.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4: Punta Pitt and Cerro Brujo

Begin your day at Punta Pitt on San Cristóbal Island, where you can observe marine iguanas, seabirds, and enjoy a snorkeling excursion. Later in the afternoon, visit Cerro Brujo, a site rich with sea lions, marine iguanas, and seabirds, all visible along the beach.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5: Lobos Island, Interpretation Center, and Tijeretas Hill

Visit Lobos Island in the morning to see sea lions playing in the waves and blue-footed boobies nesting. Afterward, explore Tijeretas Hill, offering a breathtaking viewpoint, and visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the Galapagos' volcanic origins and conservation efforts.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 6: Gardner Bay and Punta Suárez on Española Island

Spend the day on the beautiful Española Island, visiting Gardner Bay's white sandy beach and snorkeling at Gardner Island. In the afternoon, head to Punta Suárez, renowned for its diverse bird colonies and the unique waved albatross that reside on the island.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7: Cormorant Point and Post Office Bay on Floreana Island

On your final full day, land at Cormorant Point on Floreana Island for a guided walk to observe birds and wildlife. Later, visit Post Office Bay to partake in the island's centuries-old tradition of exchanging letters and postcards in a barrel.

 

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8: Disembark, Charles Darwin Station, and Baltra Airport

On your last day, disembark from the cruise ship and head to the Charles Darwin Station on Santa Cruz Island for a final chance to learn about the local wildlife and conservation efforts before transferring to Baltra Airport for your departure.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Española | Galapagos Islands
Playa Las Bachas | Sea turtle | Galapagos IslandsPunta Cormorant | Flightless cormorant | Galapagos IslandsPlaya Las Bachas | Galapagos IslandsBahia Gardner | Sea Lions | Galapagos IslandsBahía Tortuga | Galapagos IslandsMonte Crocker | Vermillion flycatcher | Galapagos IslandsPunta Suarez | Yellow-crowned Night Heron | Galapagos IslandsCaleta Tortuga Negra | Galapagos IslandsEstación Científica Charles Darwin | Giant tortoise | Galapagos IslandsCorona del Diablo | Galapagos IslandsCráteres gemelos | Galapagos IslandsBahia Gardner | Sea Lions | Galapagos Islands

8 Day Galapagos Itinerary Includes

  • Accommodation in double cabin.
  • Fuel Surcharge.
  • All activities and excursions as depicted in the itineraries in company of a bilingual naturalist guide.
  • Snorkeling equipment.
  • Kayak
  • Wetsuits
  • Stand up Paddle Board
  • Cooking and cocktail lessons.
  • Internet
  • All meals on board.
  • Purified water, tea, coffee
  • Non – alcoholic beverages
  • Selected menu premium wines, beer and cocktails
  • Laundry service
  • Mini bar consumption
  • Butler service

8 Day Galapagos Itinerary Does not Include

  • Air ticket to and from Galapagos.
  • Gratuities to guides and crew.
  • Personals expenses.
  • Alcoholic drinks not included in menu selection
  • Travel insurance.

8 Day Galapagos Itinerary Highlights

  • Explore a variety of Galapagos destinations on the M/C Hermes, including Santa Cruz, Rábida, Bartolomé, South Plaza, Santa Fe, San Cristóbal, Española, and Floreana Islands.
  • Witness the remarkable Galápagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat on Santa Cruz Island. Observe marine iguanas, sea lions, and diverse bird colonies on various islands.
  • Follow conservation tips, adhere to Galapagos National Park guidelines, and engage in wildlife watching, water activities, and guided nature walks responsibly.

Itinerary Map

Click on the map to navigate the itinerary
8 Day Galapagos Islands Cruise: Unforgettable Wildlife and Pristine Beaches Explored - Hermes Catamaran | Galapagos Map

Dates & Promotions

Galapagos 8 Days (B+C)
From USD 12995,00 pp
Book your 8-day Galapagos tour now and create memories to last a lifetime!

Dates & Prices

On an 8-day Galapagos cruise aboard the Hermes Luxury Catamaran, guests can choose between two itineraries: the Central Islands Loop and the South Islands Loop. The catamaran has a maximum capacity of 20 passengers and offers a variety of suites with double occupancy options. Here are the main features of this luxury catamaran:

  • Accommodations: 6 convertible double suites on the upper deck, 6 convertible double suites on the main deck, and 2 single suites
  • Crew: 15 crew members, including a butler and a cruise director
  • Category: Luxury
  • Amenities: All suites have a private balcony, minibar, walk-in closet, and Jacuzzi
  • Speed: Maximum speed of 12 knots

Enjoy a comfortable and luxurious Galapagos cruise experience with the Hermes Catamaran, complete with modern amenities, attentive crew, and breathtaking views of the unique island wildlife.

Child Discount

Children under 12 years old can enjoy a 15% discount on their trip. This discount may also apply to Galapagos flight fares and entrance fees. For more information, it is recommended to contact the tour provider.

The package price covers the following:

Included:

  • 7 nights accommodations
  • All meals (7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners)
  • Ground transportation
  • Activities and excursions
  • Access to a 24-7 emergency line
  • Snorkeling and kayaking gear rental
  • Wetsuits (available on board)
  • Bilingual naturalist guide
  • Pre-departure services and in-country assistance
  • Transfers and baggage handling in the Galapagos
  • Complimentary coffee, tea, and water

Excluded:

  • Gratuities
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Flight costs (request a quote from the tour provider)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Galapagos Park Entrance Fee ($100 per adult, $50 per child under 12)
  • Internal flights between Mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos ($475-675)
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

When to Go

The good to ideal period for visiting the Galapagos attracts many travelers. During this time, expect to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, such as marine iguanas, sea lions, giant tortoises, and blue-footed boobies. Enjoy the clear and confident experience of exploring volcanic formations and the unique flora of these islands.

Inquire

An 8-day Galapagos Islands cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the world's most remarkable ecosystems. During your journey, keep these helpful tips and conservation considerations in mind for a maximized and responsible experience.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the best 8-day Galapagos cruises to find the right itinerary.
  • Pack comfortable, lightweight clothes, as well as swimwear, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
  • Familiarize yourself with the unique wildlife you may encounter.

Conservation Tips:

  • Follow the Galapagos National Park guidelines and instructions given by your naturalist guide.
  • Avoid touching, feeding, or getting too close to the animals.
  • Limit your use of plastic and dispose of any waste responsibly to protect the fragile ecosystem.

Activities:

  • Participate in wildlife watching opportunities, such as observing giant tortoises at the Jacinto Gordillo Breeding Center.
  • Engage in water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle-boarding to interact with marine life as part a luxury Galapagos Islands vacation package.
  • Join guided nature walks or hikes to fully immerse yourself in the Galapagos' diverse landscapes.

Paying attention to these tips and conservation practices will help ensure the best possible experience for you and preserve the beauty of the Galapagos Islands for future generations.

Why travel with us?

Galapagos experienceOver 21 years of experience
South America & Antarctica SpecialistsSouth America & Antarctica Specialists
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